India has a rich tradition of multilingualism. Most of us grow up speaking two or three languages, thanks to the country’s incredible cultural and linguistic diversity.
I was reminded of this during an interaction at the University of Rhode Island. A young student asked me,
❝Renu, how many languages do you know?❞
I began modestly: ❝Hindi, English…❞ But perhaps I was in a slightly indulgent mood that day, so I continued, ❝…some Gujarati, I have studied Sanskrit, and I can understand and appreciate Urdu as well.❞
He looked visibly astonished—eyes widened, mouth slightly open. ❝ That’s quite a lot!❞ he said.
To keep the conversation going, I asked him the same question. He looked down, raised one finger, and replied somewhat sheepishly, ❝Only one.❞ I instantly regretted putting him in that spot.
(⸝⸝ᵕᴗᵕ⸝⸝) During the same informal interaction, someone shared a lighthearted joke:
❝ What do we call someone who speaks many languages?❞ ❝Multilingual.❞
❝Two languages? ❞ ❝Bilingual.❞
❝ And one language? ❞ ❝ …American.❞
Clearly meant in jest. But the stereotype made us reflect. It also set the stage for a deeper discussion on MULTILINGUALISM.
Soon, the conversation shifted to research in psychology and neuroscience, which shows that multilingualism is far more than just a communication skill—it is a cognitive advantage. From enhancing memory and problem-solving abilities to improving focus, fostering empathy, and even delaying cognitive decline, the benefits are both wide-ranging and well documented.
Multilingualism—the ability to use two or more languages—has profound effects on the brain’s structure and function. These advantages stem from the continuous mental exercise involved in managing multiple languages , strengthening executive functioning and mental flexibility.
India’s own intellectual and political leaders strongly advocated multilingualism. Figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Rabindranath Tagore, and B. R. Ambedkar believed that learning multiple languages expands the mind, builds cultural bridges, and serves as a powerful tool for social mobility and empowerment.
Reflecting this vision, educational policies in India have long supported the three-language formula. Recently, CBSE curriculum for 2026–27 has made a third language mandatory from Class 6. The National Education Policy’s emphasis on Indian languages. While some argue that this may limit the choice of foreign languages for students, many institutions are creatively addressing this by introducing language clubs and extracurricular opportunities.
I often hear parents express concern about the increasing academic load due to the additional language requirement. However, what is often overlooked are the significant cognitive benefits of language learning. It contributes to brain development, enhances executive functioning, improves focus, and nurtures creativity—while also strengthening communication and social skills.
At a time when global research strongly supports the advantages of multilingualism, it may be worth rethinking these concerns. Instead of viewing it as a burden, we could see it as an investment in a child’s intellectual and personal growth.
As the contemporary linguist G. N. Devy, who has documented hundreds of Indian languages through the People’s Linguistic Survey of India, aptly reminds us:
Losing languages means losing ways of understanding life.
Your thoughts in the comment box.
🌸Let‘s connect on👇
Roots n Wings 